New car sales fell in September

New car registrations fell 8.9% in September to 335,246 units against a scrappage-fuelled 2009, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Overall market remains up 7.8% over the year-to-date, at 1,635,659 units.

September was 16.3% ahead of 2009 with scrappage excluded, and on a par with 2008.

Full year market expected to hold at two million, up marginally on 2009.

Fleet, diesel and alternatively fuelled cars all posted growth in September.

Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive, said: “Despite an 8.9% fall in September registrations, demand for new cars has stabilised and will end 2010 slightly up on last year.

“It is important that alongside government’s austerity measures, the comprehensive spending review signals a strong growth agenda to boost consumer and business confidence.”